asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs if he will state the cause of delay in extending the telephone service to the towns of Balla, Castlebar, Westport, and Ballinrobe, in South Mayo, and if he is aware that the necessary guarantees for such service were obtained over a year ago.
WRITTEN ANSWERS. - EXTENSION OF TELEPHONE SERVICE IN MAYO.
The opening of telephone exchanges at Castlebar and Westport was authorised some time ago, but skilled staff to carry out the work has not so far been available through pressure in other directions. It is hoped, however, that the erection of the connecting trunk line from Claremorris will be commenced shortly, and that the Castlebar Exchange will be opened towards the end of next month, and the Westport Exchange about the end of January.
The extension of the telephone system to Balla is dependent on the prior opening of the exchange at Castlebar.
An exchange at Ballinrobe was authorised in August last, but since then a number of intending subscribers have withdrawn their promises of support, and as a consequence it has been found necessary to cancel the authority and to review the matter afresh. If adequate support is obtainable the question of proceeding with the opening of an exchange will receive early attention.